I am writing looking to request the assistance of you and your readers.

For nearly 30 years, I have been collecting Vespa motor-scooters and the associated memorabilia. Needless to say, the little Vespa was a huge part of life in the 1950s and 1960s when the majority of such vehicles were made.

My modest collection has been a regular feature at classic vehicle shows up and down the country. However, I am shortly to open a 1950s-style caf�, which is to incorporate a Vespa/scooter theme, with badges, banners, pennants, etc, lining the walls.

I am particularly interested in unearthing more Vespa Club of Britain ‘cog’ badges (approximately 3.5 inches in the shape of a gear cog) which were issued to branch members locally and to commemorate rallies and meetings.

If any of your readers have such treasures gathering dust and would be interested in seeing them appreciated by a wider audience, and/or have photographs/stories that they wish to share, could they please contact me on 07780 136 894 (I will be happy to call back to save expense), or by e-mail at scooter_cafe_kent@yahoo.co.uk or c/o 226, Woolwich Road, Charlton, London, SE7 7QU.

Additionally, anyone wishing to keep abreast of progress regarding the opening of the caf�, feel free to drop me a line.

Peter Selley

(via email).